Optimization of sylvite transformation into arcanite using experimental design methodology

This study is an application of the experimental design methodology for optimizing a potassium sulfate synthesis reaction. The latter is a two-stage reaction through an intermediate product (Schoenite: K2SO4 center dot MgSO4 center dot 6H(2)O). To determine optimal experimental conditions of the first stage, we have conducted a fractional factorial design and a central composite one. The optimal conditions of the second stage were determined only by means of a fractional factorial design. Several physico-chemical techniques were used to implement this study, namely potentiometry, complexometry, gravimetry and X-ray diffraction. This work has showed that this double decomposition reaction, when performed under the determined optimal conditions, gives good quality potassium sulfate (purity more than 95%) with a maximal yield. Copyright (c) 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.